THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRiDAy, July 18, 2025 Page 5 Boston CASA Seeks Volunteers to Advocate for Foster Youth in Suffolk and Middlesex Counties Virtual information sessions begin July 24 for those interested in joining the fall training cohort ( Ju l y B OSTON, Ma s s . 15, 2025) – Boston CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) is issuing an urgent call for volunteers to advocate on behalf of children in the foster care system. Currently, only 15% of eligible foster youth in Suffolk and Middlesex Counties have access to a CASA — a trained, court-appointed volunteer who provides consistent, one-on-one support and helps shape critical legal and life decisions. “Foster youth navigate a world of court dates, caseworkers, and constant change — often without a single consistent adult,” said Nicole Stewart, Executive Director of Boston CASA and a former foster youth. “A CASA can be that person. We’re looking for volunteers who are ready to show up, speak up, and stand by a child when it matters most.” With virtual information sessions beginning Tuesday, July 29, Boston CASA encourages compassionate adults across the region to attend an upcoming session to learn how they can make a life-changing difference for a child. What CASAs Do Unlike mentors or service providers, CASAs are appointed by a judge to focus solely on the best interests of a child in foster care. Each CASA is matched with one child or sibling group and builds a consistent, trusted relationship by meeting with them regularly and staying involved for the duration of the case. CASAs collaborate with teachers, doctors, foster parents, attorneys, and caseworkers to ensure the child’s needs are met—advocating for essential services, educational support, healthcare access, and permanent housing. They often become the one consistent adult in a child’s life, helping navigate a complex and ever-changing system. CASAs are asked to commit at least 18 months to the role. Initial training requires 30 hours, with 12 hours of ongoing education each year. Once assigned to a case, volunteers typically dedicate 10 to 15 hours per month to their CASA work. Why It Matters • The need is urgent: • Only 50% of foster youth graduate from high school • Fewer than 4% earn a fouryear college degree • Nea r l y ha l f expe r i - ence homelessness by age 26 • According to a national study, 92% of judges say CASAs improve outcomes for children, and 83% say CASAs help ensure children receive essential services. But when a youth UMass Amherst announces Spring 2025 Dean’s List of Everett residents T he following students were named to the Spring 2025 Dean’s List at the University of Massachusetts Amherst: Anthony Castro, Aryana Colon, Anthony Cooper, Kathleen De Souza, Stephany De Souza, Jamie Du, David Genium, Tia Guiffre, Kirtsy Hall, Shani Purpes Headley, Nathan Ho, Natalie Maldonado Posada, Nicole Mumbi, Rocco Navarrete Ortiz, Nghi Nguyen, Stephanie Perlera Martinez, Crystal Phan, Thong Phan, Valandy Pierre, Salina Pun, Tyler Rizzuto, Thalata Silveira. Students are appointed to the Dean’s List at the end of a semester in which they have completed a minimum of 12 graded credits and have earned a grade point average of 3.500 or better. has a CASA, they are more likely to succeed in school, access vital services, and secure a stable, permanent home. Eligibility Requirements • Have a deep desire to make a difference in a child’s life • Be 21 years or older • Commit to at least 18 months of service • Ability to meet with youth 1-2 times a month at their home or in community • Approach difficult situations with compassion and diplomacy • Keep personal beliefs separate from their advocacy role Children in foster care come from all backgrounds, and Boston CASA is committed to building a volunteer community that reflects that diversity. While all are welcome to apply, we’re especially seeking volunteers who speak additional languages, identify as people of color, are men, or are part of the LGBTQ+ community. Your lived experience can make a powerful difference in a child’s life. Upcoming Info Sessions Attending an information session is required to apply for the organization’s next volunteer training cycle, which begins in the fall. These sessions will give you an overview of the organization and our work, the application and interview process, as well as more details about the training required to CASA | SEE PAGE 9 “A lifetime of commitment to the great City of Everett” THANK YOU to the 486 Voters who signed my nomination papers! Wayne A. Matewsky for Councillor At-Large 86 Lewis St., Everett, MA * 617-389-5106 (Paid. Pol. Adv.) J& • Reliable Mowing Service • Spring & Fall Cleanups • Mulch & Edging • Sod or Seed Lawns • Shrub Planting & Trimming • Water & Sewer Repairs Joe Pierotti, Jr. S LANDSCAPE & MASONRY CO. Masonry - Asphalt • Brick or Block Steps • Brick or Block Walls • Concrete or Brick Paver Patios & Walkways • Brick Re-Pointing • Asphalt Paving www.JandSlandscape-masonry.com • Senior Discount • Free Estimates • Licensed & Insured 617-389-1490 Designing and Constructing Ideas that are “Grounds for Success” Landscaping
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